DIY Wedding Ideas

This DIY packaging is a fresh and modern way to present small favors to guests.
Fill each cocoon with something fun to keep your guests busy (like these bright and nostalgic finger pops) and something sweet to snack on.
Materials:
1/2 craft glue- 1/2 water mixture
Large spool of embroidery thread
Balloons (1 balloon for every 2 favors)
Instructions:
1. Blow up your balloons and tie a length of thread to the end of the balloon.
2. Begin wrapping thread around the balloon, the messier the wrap the better.
3. Once you have a good covering over the entire balloon, dip a brush into the glue mixture and coat the entire balloon. Hang the balloon by its end to dry. Note: You could also use liquid fabric stiffener for this step in the project, just fill a large bowl and completely dip your wrapped balloons in.
4. Once dry, cut the balloon in half at the center width. Each balloon will make two separate cocoon wraps.
5. Gently pop each balloon and pull away from the fabric. Fill your wraps and tie together with a ribbon and simple tag.
6. Rest each favor on a place setting for a creative, modern touch.

That of-the-moment (yet utterly classic) blue and white striped shirt seen just about everywhere these days inspired this fresh, stylish table setting. Here's how we did it!
Linens
Customizing individual linens for each place setting is made easy by using inexpensive white cotton napkins and multi-surface acrylic craft paint. Simply iron each napkin flat, and paint thin stripes along the bottom.
Centerpiece
Liven up your centerpiece container by adding a striped detail along the bottom. First, we spray-painted a clear glass vase with white spray paint and let it dry completely. Then, after marking off stripe-painting guides using low-tack adhesive tape, we painted stripes around the base of the container.
Floral Simplicity
A single, oversized red dahlia adds just the right amount of color and drama to this centerpiece while keeping it simple and unfussy.
Menus
Carry the stripey theme over to all aspects of your event! To create this menu card, we used blue cardstock, a white gel pen, and white paint.
Contrast + Color
The blue menu card is a striking contrast atop the sea of white. Place one card at each table setting, or put one or two at each table.
Place Cards
Make matching place cards by using white card stock and painting stripes along one edge with blue paint. Use a similarly-colored blue pen to print names on each card.
Coordinated Paper Goods
Coordinating menu and place cards are a lovely and sophisticated detail.
Stripes, Stripes, Stripes!
Using the same number of stripes and a common color scheme for each piece on your table creates a unified, crisp look that's perfect for a bridal shower or wedding day!
(photos by Mary Swenson)

By: Danyelle Mathews
Creating charming escort cards for your wedding doesn't have to take a lot of time or resources. Simply gather a few basic, inexpensive supplies to produce this budget-savvy, casual-chic concept.
Supplies:
Manilla shipping tags
Chalkboard paint
Foam paintbrush
Step One
Arrange your tags on a large work surface
Step Two
Dip the foam paintbrush into the chalkboard paint and apply one brushstroke to each tag.
Step Three
Allow the paint to dry completely, then write guests names and seating information on the tags with chalk.
Step Four
Display the tags using a fabric backdrop, coordinating yarn or string and wooden clothespins.
{Photos by: Danyelle Matthews}

By: Danyelle Mathews
Creating charming escort cards for your wedding doesn't have to take a lot of time or resources. Simply gather a few basic, inexpensive supplies to produce this budget-savvy, casual-chic concept.
Supplies:
Manilla shipping tags
Chalkboard paint
Foam paintbrush
Step One
Arrange your tags on a large work surface
Step Two
Dip the foam paintbrush into the chalkboard paint and apply one brushstroke to each tag.
Step Three
Allow the paint to dry completely, then write guests names and seating information on the tags with chalk.
Step Four
Display the tags using a fabric backdrop, coordinating yarn or string and wooden clothespins.
{Photos by: Danyelle Matthews}

Using five varieties of Lilac and a a few stems of springtime Spirea, we created a gathered, musky bouquet that any bride would be happy to sink her nose in for a day. The textured, romantic style is perfect for a modern, traditional or country wedding.
You will need:
30 stems of lilac.
We used: Korean Lilac (tiny flowers), "Beauty of Moscow (light pink), "Mount Baker" (white), Common Purple Lilac and Wedgewood Blue.
15 stems of spirea
string
flower clippers
ribbon or cloth tape
Directions:
1. Condition flowers overnight. Cut the stems and cut a slit upwards in each stem to allow it to drink water. Sit them in lukewarm water in a cool place away from drafts, heat, and fruit and food.
2. Strip most of the leaves off the lilacs. Usually the stems are long so trim them to around 12" each. Make sure there is one stem per large blossom. If there are two stems, trim one off.
3. Make piles of each type and color.
4. Gather 1- 2 stems in your one hand. Add stems at a 45 degree angle. Turn the bouquet to the right each time you add stems.
The stems should spiral. For the most part, larger, heavier blooms should sit at the bottom of the bouquet and lighter buds and blossoms should sit near the top.
5. Secure with twine or string.
6. Add a ribbon. We used a patterned cloth tape (usually sold for bookbinding) and simply wrapped it on top of the string. If you use a ribbon, secure with a pin.
Tips for working with lilacs:
Always give them a clean cut when you bring them home. Cut at an angle, and then cut upwards into the stem, once.
Use lukewarm water, lilacs don't like to be shocked by really cold or hot water.
If some blooms start to wilt, recut the stems.
Keep away from fruit, food, direct sunlight, and drafts. Plan to buy a bit more than you need, a few stems in the bunch will always wilt.
Don't be afraid to work with lilac, if you remember these simple tips, it's easy!
Photo By Chelsea Fuss

By: Danyelle Mathews
Your wedding is a special day for you and your closest friends. Why not put a bit of extra thought into how you ask your besties to be your bridesmaids?
Materials:
wool felt
small embroidery hoop
thread
needle
pencil
scissors
glue gun
glue stick

Step One
Place the felt into the embroidery hoop and begin stitching. You can freehand the lettering, just use a lightly colored pencil to write out your message onto the felt. The thread will cover it when you're finished.
Step Two
Tie off any loose thread ends on the back
Step Three
Trim the felt, leaving about 1/2" around the diameter of the embroidery hoop.
Step Four
Using your glue gun, secure the excess felt to the inside of the hoop.
Step Five
Package up the completed project in a box with a simple "will you..." tag attached to the front.
Not only will your friends appreciate your thoughtfulness, they'll treasure the special handmade memento.

Looking for a less traditional cake topper for your wedding? These vintage fabric stars will bring a dose of bright charm to your cake or dessert bar.
Materials:
To make them, you'll need basic star frame(s), mod podge, fabric, and scissors. Small cardboard star frames are available at your local craft store, while larger metal frames can be readily found at thrift stores or at many big box stores.
Materials (cont.):
Find a fabric that coordinates with your wedding day. Search Etsy for a wide variety of pretty vintage florals or check your local fabric store for vintage replica fabrics.
Step One:
Cut your fabric to the approximate size of your star and dredge it in a bowl of Modge Podge until completely wet. Place the fabric on top of your mold and use your fingers to gently shape it into form. Let dry overnight.
Step Two:
Once dry, cut the fabric closer to the frame shape and turn over. Secure any extra fabric in the back with glue.
Step Three:
Use wood glue to attach a stick to the backside of a large star frame. Many smaller frames come sold with small wooden sticks already attached.
Display Tip:
Place one large star in your cake for a bold bright touch or scatter smaller stars atop cakes, cupcakes and desserts.

These sweet and wild green wreaths are perfect for anytime of year (just change out the ribbon to suit the season). They look gorgeous on church doors, bride and groom chairs, or as pew markers. Total cost: $5 per wreath.
Materials:
Spool wire
Floral tape
Clippers
Greens (about 15 stems per wreath, we used rosemary, bay and boxwood)
Ribbon
1. Form a circle (whatever size you need. Remember your wreath will be slightly bigger than the form) with the spool wire and double it over several times.
2. Cover the circle in floral tape.
3. Cut small pieces of greens and, take excess leaves off about an inch of the bottom stem.
4. Secure each piece with wire.
5. Make sure you overlap the stems to cover any wires or mechanics. You may need to fill in with a few extra pieces.
6. You can make these up to a week ahead of time. Spray daily with water and keep in a cool, dark place.
7. Hang with ribbon and afterwards send them home with special guests.
Add this natural touch to your big day - and have fun!
Photos By: Chelsea Fuss

By Project Wedding for our sponsor, Ann's Bridal Bargains
Add the perfect finishing touches throughout your wedding with ribbon. All you need are a few accent ideas and a little imagination!
Tie different colors of chiffon ribbon in a knot around a favor box to create a finished look and a secure spot for favor cards. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Attach multi-colored satin and chiffon ribbons to the end of a wooden craft stick to create simple, affordable ribbon wands! Concept byAnn's Bridal Bargains.
Pink paper lanterns become adorable pieces of chair décor when hung with bright purple satin ribbon. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Get creative with your invitation! We cut two slits, one on each side of the initial, to allow the threading of a large, brown satin ribbon. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Ecru satin ribbon shines against mocha, two-piece favor boxes, lending a little extra luster to each favor. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Enhance the look of a wedding program by wrapping a brown satin ribbon around the fold and finishing it with a knot and tassel. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Satin bows can help tie your wedding colors to your wedding favors for a completely coordinated look. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
A red ribbon accents this invitation’s heart design for a cute, romantic look. Concept byAnn's Bridal Bargains.
For easy chair décor, dangle satin ribbons! They add the perfect amount of color to a ceremony or reception. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Create texture and elegance with a ribbon and feather centerpiece! Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Two satin ribbons, secured by a favor label, create a stylish closure for these clear favor bags. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.

This DIY packaging is a fresh and modern way to present small favors to guests.
Fill each cocoon with something fun to keep your guests busy (like these bright and nostalgic finger pops) and something sweet to snack on.
Materials:
1/2 craft glue- 1/2 water mixture
Large spool of embroidery thread
Balloons (1 balloon for every 2 favors)
Instructions:
1. Blow up your balloons and tie a length of thread to the end of the balloon.
2. Begin wrapping thread around the balloon, the messier the wrap the better.
3. Once you have a good covering over the entire balloon, dip a brush into the glue mixture and coat the entire balloon. Hang the balloon by its end to dry. Note: You could also use liquid fabric stiffener for this step in the project, just fill a large bowl and completely dip your wrapped balloons in.
4. Once dry, cut the balloon in half at the center width. Each balloon will make two separate cocoon wraps.
5. Gently pop each balloon and pull away from the fabric. Fill your wraps and tie together with a ribbon and simple tag.
6. Rest each favor on a place setting for a creative, modern touch.

That of-the-moment (yet utterly classic) blue and white striped shirt seen just about everywhere these days inspired this fresh, stylish table setting. Here's how we did it!
Linens
Customizing individual linens for each place setting is made easy by using inexpensive white cotton napkins and multi-surface acrylic craft paint. Simply iron each napkin flat, and paint thin stripes along the bottom.
Centerpiece
Liven up your centerpiece container by adding a striped detail along the bottom. First, we spray-painted a clear glass vase with white spray paint and let it dry completely. Then, after marking off stripe-painting guides using low-tack adhesive tape, we painted stripes around the base of the container.
Floral Simplicity
A single, oversized red dahlia adds just the right amount of color and drama to this centerpiece while keeping it simple and unfussy.
Menus
Carry the stripey theme over to all aspects of your event! To create this menu card, we used blue cardstock, a white gel pen, and white paint.
Contrast + Color
The blue menu card is a striking contrast atop the sea of white. Place one card at each table setting, or put one or two at each table.
Place Cards
Make matching place cards by using white card stock and painting stripes along one edge with blue paint. Use a similarly-colored blue pen to print names on each card.
Coordinated Paper Goods
Coordinating menu and place cards are a lovely and sophisticated detail.
Stripes, Stripes, Stripes!
Using the same number of stripes and a common color scheme for each piece on your table creates a unified, crisp look that's perfect for a bridal shower or wedding day!
(photos by Mary Swenson)

By: Danyelle Mathews
Creating charming escort cards for your wedding doesn't have to take a lot of time or resources. Simply gather a few basic, inexpensive supplies to produce this budget-savvy, casual-chic concept.
Supplies:
Manilla shipping tags
Chalkboard paint
Foam paintbrush
Step One
Arrange your tags on a large work surface
Step Two
Dip the foam paintbrush into the chalkboard paint and apply one brushstroke to each tag.
Step Three
Allow the paint to dry completely, then write guests names and seating information on the tags with chalk.
Step Four
Display the tags using a fabric backdrop, coordinating yarn or string and wooden clothespins.
{Photos by: Danyelle Matthews}

By: Danyelle Mathews
Creating charming escort cards for your wedding doesn't have to take a lot of time or resources. Simply gather a few basic, inexpensive supplies to produce this budget-savvy, casual-chic concept.
Supplies:
Manilla shipping tags
Chalkboard paint
Foam paintbrush
Step One
Arrange your tags on a large work surface
Step Two
Dip the foam paintbrush into the chalkboard paint and apply one brushstroke to each tag.
Step Three
Allow the paint to dry completely, then write guests names and seating information on the tags with chalk.
Step Four
Display the tags using a fabric backdrop, coordinating yarn or string and wooden clothespins.
{Photos by: Danyelle Matthews}

Using five varieties of Lilac and a a few stems of springtime Spirea, we created a gathered, musky bouquet that any bride would be happy to sink her nose in for a day. The textured, romantic style is perfect for a modern, traditional or country wedding.
You will need:
30 stems of lilac.
We used: Korean Lilac (tiny flowers), "Beauty of Moscow (light pink), "Mount Baker" (white), Common Purple Lilac and Wedgewood Blue.
15 stems of spirea
string
flower clippers
ribbon or cloth tape
Directions:
1. Condition flowers overnight. Cut the stems and cut a slit upwards in each stem to allow it to drink water. Sit them in lukewarm water in a cool place away from drafts, heat, and fruit and food.
2. Strip most of the leaves off the lilacs. Usually the stems are long so trim them to around 12" each. Make sure there is one stem per large blossom. If there are two stems, trim one off.
3. Make piles of each type and color.
4. Gather 1- 2 stems in your one hand. Add stems at a 45 degree angle. Turn the bouquet to the right each time you add stems.
The stems should spiral. For the most part, larger, heavier blooms should sit at the bottom of the bouquet and lighter buds and blossoms should sit near the top.
5. Secure with twine or string.
6. Add a ribbon. We used a patterned cloth tape (usually sold for bookbinding) and simply wrapped it on top of the string. If you use a ribbon, secure with a pin.
Tips for working with lilacs:
Always give them a clean cut when you bring them home. Cut at an angle, and then cut upwards into the stem, once.
Use lukewarm water, lilacs don't like to be shocked by really cold or hot water.
If some blooms start to wilt, recut the stems.
Keep away from fruit, food, direct sunlight, and drafts. Plan to buy a bit more than you need, a few stems in the bunch will always wilt.
Don't be afraid to work with lilac, if you remember these simple tips, it's easy!
Photo By Chelsea Fuss

By: Danyelle Mathews
Your wedding is a special day for you and your closest friends. Why not put a bit of extra thought into how you ask your besties to be your bridesmaids?
Materials:
wool felt
small embroidery hoop
thread
needle
pencil
scissors
glue gun
glue stick

Step One
Place the felt into the embroidery hoop and begin stitching. You can freehand the lettering, just use a lightly colored pencil to write out your message onto the felt. The thread will cover it when you're finished.
Step Two
Tie off any loose thread ends on the back
Step Three
Trim the felt, leaving about 1/2" around the diameter of the embroidery hoop.
Step Four
Using your glue gun, secure the excess felt to the inside of the hoop.
Step Five
Package up the completed project in a box with a simple "will you..." tag attached to the front.
Not only will your friends appreciate your thoughtfulness, they'll treasure the special handmade memento.

Looking for a less traditional cake topper for your wedding? These vintage fabric stars will bring a dose of bright charm to your cake or dessert bar.
Materials:
To make them, you'll need basic star frame(s), mod podge, fabric, and scissors. Small cardboard star frames are available at your local craft store, while larger metal frames can be readily found at thrift stores or at many big box stores.
Materials (cont.):
Find a fabric that coordinates with your wedding day. Search Etsy for a wide variety of pretty vintage florals or check your local fabric store for vintage replica fabrics.
Step One:
Cut your fabric to the approximate size of your star and dredge it in a bowl of Modge Podge until completely wet. Place the fabric on top of your mold and use your fingers to gently shape it into form. Let dry overnight.
Step Two:
Once dry, cut the fabric closer to the frame shape and turn over. Secure any extra fabric in the back with glue.
Step Three:
Use wood glue to attach a stick to the backside of a large star frame. Many smaller frames come sold with small wooden sticks already attached.
Display Tip:
Place one large star in your cake for a bold bright touch or scatter smaller stars atop cakes, cupcakes and desserts.

These sweet and wild green wreaths are perfect for anytime of year (just change out the ribbon to suit the season). They look gorgeous on church doors, bride and groom chairs, or as pew markers. Total cost: $5 per wreath.
Materials:
Spool wire
Floral tape
Clippers
Greens (about 15 stems per wreath, we used rosemary, bay and boxwood)
Ribbon
1. Form a circle (whatever size you need. Remember your wreath will be slightly bigger than the form) with the spool wire and double it over several times.
2. Cover the circle in floral tape.
3. Cut small pieces of greens and, take excess leaves off about an inch of the bottom stem.
4. Secure each piece with wire.
5. Make sure you overlap the stems to cover any wires or mechanics. You may need to fill in with a few extra pieces.
6. You can make these up to a week ahead of time. Spray daily with water and keep in a cool, dark place.
7. Hang with ribbon and afterwards send them home with special guests.
Add this natural touch to your big day - and have fun!
Photos By: Chelsea Fuss

By Project Wedding for our sponsor, Ann's Bridal Bargains
Add the perfect finishing touches throughout your wedding with ribbon. All you need are a few accent ideas and a little imagination!
Tie different colors of chiffon ribbon in a knot around a favor box to create a finished look and a secure spot for favor cards. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Attach multi-colored satin and chiffon ribbons to the end of a wooden craft stick to create simple, affordable ribbon wands! Concept byAnn's Bridal Bargains.
Pink paper lanterns become adorable pieces of chair décor when hung with bright purple satin ribbon. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Get creative with your invitation! We cut two slits, one on each side of the initial, to allow the threading of a large, brown satin ribbon. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Ecru satin ribbon shines against mocha, two-piece favor boxes, lending a little extra luster to each favor. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Enhance the look of a wedding program by wrapping a brown satin ribbon around the fold and finishing it with a knot and tassel. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Satin bows can help tie your wedding colors to your wedding favors for a completely coordinated look. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
A red ribbon accents this invitation’s heart design for a cute, romantic look. Concept byAnn's Bridal Bargains.
For easy chair décor, dangle satin ribbons! They add the perfect amount of color to a ceremony or reception. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Create texture and elegance with a ribbon and feather centerpiece! Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.
Two satin ribbons, secured by a favor label, create a stylish closure for these clear favor bags. Concept by Ann's Bridal Bargains.

What could be more fun than telling your friends and family that you made everything at your wedding yourself? Well, an entire Do it Yourself wedding
...

might be going a bit overboard, but Project Wedding has tons of DIY wedding ideas for you to implement for your big day.

Whether you can’t cut a straight line or you’re the next Martha Stewart, we have DIY wedding ideas for every type of bride. From DIY wedding favors to DIY wedding decorations to DIY wedding invitations, if you’re interested in doing it yourself, we can help! With so many unique images of wedding ideas we’ve found, plus all our great photos of real weddings, you’ll find the most DIY wedding ideas here.

From simple wrap and tie wedding favors to more complex origami wedding decorations – if we think you can make it, you’ll find it here. These DIY favors are guaranteed to thrill your guests without emptying your pockets. Even if you’re not very crafty, we still have some fast and easy project ideas that you might like. And if you have creative friends or relatives, chances are they will be more than happy to help you.

DIY weddings are a great way to put a personal touch on all of your wedding details. You can add your initials to your wedding favors, make a candy buffet that complements your wedding colors, or create a masterpiece that looks store bought but cost way less. Whatever your reason for wanting a Do it Yourself wedding, our articles will help make your dreams come to life.

With so many great DIY wedding ideas, all of your family, friends and honored wedding guests are guaranteed to remember how amazingly creative your wedding day was. Now go get crafty!